Description

What is stroke and what are the signs of stroke?

Stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of blood flow to the brain as a result of a blood clot (ischemic stroke), or by the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).

The interruption of blood flow to the brain or the rupture of blood vessels causes brain cells (neurons) in the affected area to die.

Stroke is a medical emergency that needs to be diagnosed and treated quickly. The cause of stroke is similar to that of a heart attack; it occurs when blood stops flowing to the heart or brain.

In Québec, around 200,000 people a year have a stroke. It is estimated that 130,000 people who have had a stroke experience physical and psychological effects. The impacts on the quality of life of these individuals and their loved ones can be profound and sometimes dramatic.

A brain artery may sometimes be blocked temporarily; in this case, recovery occurs naturally and there are no long-term effects. This is called transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini stroke. The symptoms are the same as for stroke, but usually last less than an hour. A TIA should be taken seriously since it can be followed by a more serious stroke within 48 hours. You should see a doctor right away.

Sources : Statistics from the MSSS Website accessed in February 2018, updated in January 2018.

Treatment

People at Risk

Important

The information accessed through the portal is in no way a substitute for diagnosis, evaluation, treatment and follow-up by a health professional. If you need assistance or additional information, please see your doctor or call Info-Santé 8-1-1.